Lian Li UNI Fan SL-INF 120 Review: Stunning but Pricey
The most striking praise for the Lian Li UNI Fan SL-INF 120 RGB Infinity Mirror ARGB Black comes from PCPartPicker, where it holds a near-perfect 5.0 average from 35 ratings — “quiet, customizable, good RGB, and great software”. That sets the tone for a product whose blend of aesthetics and engineering earns it a solid 9/10 in user sentiment, but with enough recurring complaints to keep wary buyers alert.
Quick Verdict: Conditional
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stunning infinity mirror lighting with vibrant RGB effects | High price compared to competitors |
| Quiet operation even at high RPM | Occasional L-Connect 3 software recognition issues |
| Daisy-chain capability reduces cable clutter | Rubber pads on corners sometimes detach |
| Solid cooling performance for intakes and radiators | Not all controller/software setups work smoothly |
| Modular design improves radiator compatibility | Mixed reports on long-term reliability of LEDs |
Claims vs Reality
Marketing highlights the "all-around infinity mirror design" and "simple cable management via daisy-chain connections." In practice, many users confirm this. LDLC customer alexisd said the daisy chain system meant his fans were "installed and cable managed perfectly” and were “absolutely delighted” with the look. Amazon buyers echo similar ease-of-installation experiences.
The brand also promises "quiet operation at high speed" and "lower wind noise with reverse blades." Reddit user feedback largely aligns here: “Noise level at max rpm is quiet... barely noticeable,” one Newegg reviewer stated. But while rated noise levels are listed as low (32 dB), a few acknowledge that you still "hear it" under load—though the sound is soft rather than intrusive.
Finally, Lian Li touts the L-Connect 3 software as a feature-rich control system. Some Reddit users report smooth experiences after initial setup — “took me a little while to figure it out, but I did and it works well” — but others note intermittent recognition issues, especially when mixing with other RGB ecosystems. One Reddit user regretted a large-scale purchase after “the lights, LCD screen, or blades... intermittently didn’t turn on”, hinting at occasional hardware/software interplay issues.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
The standout feature across Amazon, LDLC, Trustpilot, and Reddit comments is the lighting quality. The infinity mirror effect and edge strips create “harmonious colors” with “spectacular effect” in builds, as LDLC’s florian m put it. PCPartPicker reviewers highlight the mirror center as “absolutely stunning,” reinforcing that for glass-panel case owners or streamers, the visual payoff is unmatched.
Cable management is another winner. The daisy-chain system — allowing up to 4 fans on a single cable — dramatically reduces clutter. Reddit users value this in dual-chamber cases, and Trustpilot reviewers confirm installation is “easier to store neatly” thanks to fewer wires.
Performance, while slightly secondary to looks, still earns strong marks. Newegg’s top-rated review praises the cooling: “They perform really well and keep the inside of the case really cool.” Reverse blade versions get specific praise from intake configurations for cutting wind noise without sacrificing throughput.
Common Complaints
Price appears in multiple contexts as a sticking point. Fakespot analysis quotes one user: “They are ridiculously priced... I almost didn’t want to buy them... but well worth it if you want quality fans.” That framing suggests buyers accept the premium begrudgingly for the design and build.
The most documented hardware issue is with corner pads. Several Newegg and Trustpilot comments note pads “sag and come off easily,” with one owner in contact with Lian Li to obtain replacements. While minor physically, it undermines the premium feel.
Software integration remains mixed. Users mixing L-Connect 3 with ASUS Aura Sync report control issues — “Aura sync and Lian Li software fight for dominance and constantly resets my USB connections” — while others blame certain controllers for fan speed or lighting recognition gaps. Unresolved bugs for the newer LCD-equipped AIOs also pop up in Reddit stories.
Divisive Features
The reverse blade option splits opinion. For intake setups — particularly on radiators or side mounts — it delivers reduced wind noise and cleaner visuals without bracket obstruction. However, as one Fakespot reviewer warns, if used for exhaust, the rear brackets may “be visible” and detract from the look. Buyers picking blade orientation without considering airflow direction sometimes end up dissatisfied.
Trust & Reliability
Pattern analysis from Trustpilot and Reddit reveals most long-term complaints stem from inconsistent component behavior. One Reddit builder with a year-old setup described fans intermittently failing to light or spin, eventually leading to planned replacements. At the same time, other veterans report no degradation — “works perfectly… software works very well with the hub” — suggesting variability in manufacturing batches or controller reliability.
It’s worth noting that Fakespot found over 80% of reviews to be high quality with minimal deception. That helps counter fears of review manipulation and supports overall trust in the baseline product design. Still, prospective buyers should note one recurring caution: mix-and-match ecosystems (especially ASUS or MSI RGB suites) have a higher chance of long-term control instability unless carefully isolated.
Alternatives
Reddit comparisons to the AL120 series suggest that while the SL-INF looks “slightly better,” AL120s may avoid pad issues. Some opt for cheaper Asiahorse fans for similar RGB aesthetics, though PCPartPicker users admit those are “sold out” or lack the same premium materials and daisy-chain system. The choice boils down to whether the infinity mirror aesthetics justify spending more than solid but plainer alternatives.
Price & Value
Current eBay listings show single packs at $30–$49 and triple packs with controllers between $83–$155, reflecting both scarcity and high perceived value. Historical price tracking (PriceHistoryApp) in India shows averages around ₹3202 with seasonal drops as low as ₹3033. Resale holds strong if kept in good condition, but triple packs with controllers maintain better second-hand demand than singles.
Buying tips from community threads stress getting reverse blades only for visible intake positions and pairing multiple fans with dedicated Lian Li controllers to avoid software conflicts.
FAQ
Q: Do I need the Lian Li controller to use these fans?
A: Not strictly, but most lighting and speed control features require it. Without the controller, motherboard PWM/ARGB headers can still run them, but L-Connect’s advanced effects won’t work.
Q: How loud are they at full speed?
A: Users describe them as quiet for their airflow — “barely noticeable” at max RPM. The reverse blade intake setup can further cut wind noise.
Q: Are there issues mixing them with other RGB brands?
A: Yes, especially with ASUS Aura Sync. Some users report control conflicts and USB resets. Isolate controllers or disable other RGB software to avoid this.
Q: Do the pads falling off affect performance?
A: No direct impact on cooling, but they can affect vibration damping and the high-end feel. Some owners request replacements from Lian Li.
Q: Is reverse blade better than regular?
A: For intake positions where the visible side matters, yes — it hides brackets and lowers wind noise. For exhaust, regular blades may look cleaner from the rear.
Final Verdict: Buy if aesthetics and clean cable management are top priorities, especially for showcase builds with glass panels. Avoid if you’re budget-conscious or rely heavily on mixing software ecosystems. Pro tip from the community: plan airflow and blade orientation ahead to maximize both cooling and visuals — reverse for intakes, regular for exhausts.
